Scholarship details
Do you dream of pursuing a science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), or health science degree? Do you have a parent who served or is serving in the U.S. Navy? Do you need financial assistance to make your dream come true? If you answered yes to these questions, you may be eligible for the Brown Hudner Navy Scholarship Foundation. This new scholarship program honors the legacy of two Navy heroes: Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner.
Jesse Brown was the first African-American naval aviator in U.S. history. He flew combat missions during the Korean War and was shot down by enemy fire in 1950. Tom Hudner was his wingman and friend, who risked his life to try to save Brown by crash-landing his plane near Brown’s. Despite Hudner’s efforts, Brown died of his injuries. Hudner was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and loyalty. After Brown’s death, Hudner and his shipmates took up a collection for Brown’s daughter’s college fund, starting a tradition of honor and generosity that continues today.
About the Scholarship Provider
The Brown Hudner Navy Scholarship Foundation (BHNSF) was established in 2022 by Frederick W. Smith, the founder and CEO of FedEx, who was inspired by the true story of Brown and Hudner. Smith donated $65 million to launch the foundation, managed by the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF). This reputable organization has been providing scholarships to the children of Marines for over half a century. The BHNSF aims to honor the service and sacrifice of Navy families by providing scholarships to their children who pursue STEM or health science degrees. The foundation will award its first scholarships in 2023.
Eligible Applicants
The BHNSF scholarships are open to the children of active duty, reserve, honorably discharged, or fallen Sailors who meet the following criteria:
- GPA of at least 2.0
- Demonstrated financial need
- Planning to pursue a degree in STEM or health science at an accredited post-secondary institution
Host Country
The BHNSF scholarships are available for students who plan to study in the United States.
Scholarship Worth
The BHNSF scholarships are worth up to $3,800 per academic year, depending on the cost of attendance and other financial aid received by the student. The scholarships are renewable for up to four years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress and eligibility.
Level and Field of Study
The BHNSF scholarships are for undergraduate students pursuing a STEM or health science degree. The eligible fields of study include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Physics
How to Apply
To apply for the BHNSF scholarships, students must complete an online application form, including personal information, academic records, financial information, and a personal statement. The application also requires two letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, coaches, or mentors who can attest to the student’s academic potential, character, and leadership. The application deadline is March 1, 2024.
Countries that can Apply
The BHNSF scholarships are open to the children of U.S. Navy Sailors, regardless of their citizenship or country of residence.
Eligibility Criteria
The BHNSF scholarships are based on three main criteria: merit, need, and service. The applicants must demonstrate the following:
- Merit: They must have a GPA of at least 2.0 and show academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, and leadership potential.
- Need: They must have a family-adjusted gross income of $103,000 or less and show financial hardship or exceptional circumstances that affect their ability to pay for college.
- Service: They must have a parent who served or is serving in the U.S. Navy, either on active duty, in the reserves, or as a veteran. They must also appreciate the Navy’s values and commitment to serving their community and country.
Scholarship Deadline
The BHNSF scholarship application deadline is March 1, 2024. The applicants will be notified of the results by May 15, 2024.
If you are interested in applying for the BHNSF scholarships, do not miss this opportunity to honor the legacy of Jesse Brown and Tom Hudner, who exemplified the Navy motto: Honor, Courage, Commitment. Apply now and take a step closer to achieving your educational and career goals.
